India's heritage sites to figure soon on Google maps

A 360-degree online imagery of 100 of the most important Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) sites, including Taj Mahal, Khajuraho temples and Ajanta caves, are being created to bring India’s heritage online.

There are 3,678 monuments and archaeological sites that are protected by the ASI. As many as 20 of them, including the Qutub Minar, the Red Fort and the Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi apart from Taj Mahal and Hampi in other states, are world heritage sites.

Once published, this new imagery of Indian heritage sites will be available on Google maps and the world wonders site within Google Cultural Institute. People across the world will be able to virtually view these areas.

The government hopes this collaboration will generate interest and consciousness among the Indian population in general and the youth in particular towards safeguarding the national cultural heritage of India.

“In its 151st year, it is good to know that the ASI is keeping pace with the changing times and is boldly taking forward its mission of embracing partnership for the future, in order to preserve and propagate the heritage of India’s past. This is indeed a giant step,” Katoch said.